Athletes Foot: It's Not Just For Athlete's

admin - 15 July 2012 - 7:30 am

Athletes Foot

Athletes foot does not affect only athletes. It is a common disease of the foot caused by bacteria and fungal infection. The skin on the foot becomes flaky, scaly and itchy. People who walk around barefoot in wet or moist areas have a higher risk of contracting the fungus. Wearing appropriate shoes in the bathroom, locker room, and shower areas can prevent the growth of the fungal infection.

The foot is not the only area this fungus can attack. Other parts of the body are at risk as well if the fungus is not treated. The groin area is often affected by the fungal infection and is referred to as Jock itch.

Sometimes home remedies work great but do not produce a cure. Ajoene is often used to treat athletes foot; it is compound in garlic. This compound effectiveness reduces symptoms in the first week of usage. Apple cider vinegar is said to resolve chronic conditions if placed inside the sock, footwear and hosiery.

It is not easy to avoid the signs of athletes foot. Pain, inflammation, blisters, cracked skin, swelling and raw tissue exposure are painful symptoms associated with athletes foot. Pretty noticable ~ Symptoms of this severity require the attention of a qualified podiatrist.

Treatment involves using tropical antifungal cream, and/or gels and taking prescribed medication. Practicing good personal hygiene and keeping the affected area dry are also priceless preventive measures. Ointments containing Zinc Oxide as well as talcum powder help to absorb the moisture and kill the bacteria.

Without proper treatment the infection only worsens and spreads to other areas of the body. A podiatrist will address this problem and stop the spread of athletes foot and help patients get back to their normal routine.

Getting Professional Treatment

The Podiatrist is a specialist in examining, treating and preventing minor and major ailments that negatively affect the feet, ankles and heels. They are trained in radiology, anesthesia, orthopedic and emergency care. The time to see a podiatrist is when swelling and pain to the ankle and heel do not subside and an ankle injury worsens.

It is always our express intent to recommend that you take no chances with foot, ankle or knee pain, or injuries. Professional treatment to relieve the pain is available from doctors such as Delray Beach’s Dr. Ian Goldbaum of Delray Beach Podiatry, who has provided us with this blog. If the pain continues, a podiatrist with Dr. Goldbaum’s experience should be consulted. You must get proper treatment to prevent permanent damage.

Staff Writer. All staff writers are freelance writers with under graduate and graduate degrees in the field of medicine.